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Car Key Programmer Jobs in Washington, DC (NOW HIRING)

Bowhead

Engineer I

Washington, DC · On-site

$90K - $105K/yr

... Car Assessment Program (NCAP) team.This position requires knowledge, at a comprehensive ... education/training, key skills, internal peer equity, as well as, market and business ...

ColonialWebb

Sales Engineer

Gaithersburg, MD · On-site

$150K/yr

Car allowance and gas card A day in the life: * Develop project solutions to bring value to ... Build and maintain strong relationships with key vendors and subcontractors to ensure competitive ...

Comfortsystemsusa

Sales Engineer

Gaithersburg, MD · On-site

$150K/yr

Car allowance and gas card A day in the life: * Develop project solutions to bring value to ... Build and maintain strong relationships with key vendors and subcontractors to ensure competitive ...

Comfort Systems USA

Sales Engineer

Gaithersburg, MD · On-site

$150K/yr

Car allowance and gas card A day in the life: * Develop project solutions to bring value to ... Build and maintain strong relationships with key vendors and subcontractors to ensure competitive ...

ColonialWebb

Sales Engineer

Gaithersburg, MD

$150K/yr

Car allowance and gas card A day in the life: * Develop project solutions to bring value to ... Build and maintain strong relationships with key vendors and subcontractors to ensure competitive ...

Capital One

Distinguished Engineer

Mclean, VA · On-site

Distinguished Engineer As a Distinguished Engineer at Capital One, you will be a part of a ... Key responsibilities: * Articulate and evangelize a bold technical vision for your domain

MRINetwork Jobs

Sr Mechanical Engineer - MEP

Herndon, VA · On-site

$107K - $141K/yr

Key Responsibilities: * Perform calculations and analysis to support design decisions and ensure ... Comprehensive family healthcare * Car allowance * Relocation Assistance Contact Us: If you meet the ...

MRINetwork Jobs

Sr Mechanical Engineer - MEP

Herndon, VA · On-site

$107K - $141K/yr

Key Responsibilities: * Perform calculations and analysis to support design decisions and ensure ... Comprehensive family healthcare * Car allowance * Relocation Assistance Contact Us: If you meet the ...

MRINetwork Jobs

Sr Mechanical Engineer - MEP

Herndon, VA · On-site

$107K - $141K/yr

Key Responsibilities: * Perform calculations and analysis to support design decisions and ensure ... Comprehensive family healthcare * Car allowance * Relocation Assistance Contact Us: If you meet the ...

Bowhead

Transportation Analyst

Springfield, VA · On-site

$40/hr

Serve as a technical resource on car seat safety, occupant protection systems, and NCAP-related ... Coordinate and support engineering evaluations and vehicle testing initiatives. * Take ownership of ...

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All JobsCar Key Programmer JobsCar Key Programmer Jobs in Washington, DC

Car Key Programmer information

See Washington, DC salary details

$13

$44

$77

How much do car key programmer jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 24, 2026, the average hourly pay for car key programmer in Washington, DC is $44.78, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $29.13 and $58.27 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a car key programmer?

Car key programmers are professionals who specialize in programming, duplicating, and reprogramming car keys and key fobs for vehicles. They use specialized tools and software to sync new keys or remotes with a vehicle’s immobilizer system, ensuring that only authorized keys can start the car. Car key programmers are often called upon when someone loses their keys, needs a spare, or encounters issues with their existing car keys or remotes.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a car key programmer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Car Key Programmer, you need a solid understanding of automotive electrical systems, key programming procedures, and diagnostic techniques, often supported by vocational training or certification in automotive locksmithing. Proficiency with key programming devices, diagnostic scan tools, and specialized software is essential for the role. Strong problem-solving skills, attention to detail, and effective communication with customers help set top professionals apart. These skills and qualities are crucial for accurately resolving key and immobilizer issues, ensuring vehicle security, and delivering excellent customer service.

What are some typical challenges faced by car key programmers in the field?

Car Key Programmers often encounter challenges such as dealing with a wide variety of vehicle makes and models, each with differing security protocols and key programming requirements. Staying updated with the latest technology and software tools is essential, as newer vehicles often introduce advanced security systems. Additionally, working in environments like roadside assistance or automotive shops can require quick problem-solving and adaptability, especially when customers are locked out or need urgent help. Collaboration with locksmiths, mechanics, and dealership staff is also common, making strong communication skills valuable in this role.

Do you need a license to program car keys?

Car key programmers typically do not require a formal license to operate, but they must have proper training and knowledge of automotive security systems. In some regions, certain tools or services may be regulated, and technicians may need certifications or licenses to perform advanced programming or work legally on vehicles. It's important to follow local laws and manufacturer guidelines when programming car keys.

How much does a car key programmer make?

Car key programmers typically earn between $30,000 and $60,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and whether they work in a repair shop or as mobile technicians. Skilled technicians with certifications and experience in automotive security systems may earn higher wages or additional bonuses.

What are popular job titles related to Car Key Programmer jobs in Washington, DC?

For Car Key Programmer jobs in Washington, DC, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Car Key Programmer jobs in Washington, DC look for?

The top searched job categories for Car Key Programmer jobs in Washington, DC are:

Car Key Programmer jobs near you

Chief Engineer, Autonomy (R4614)

Shield AI

Washington, DC • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 23 days ago

Job description

Job Summary:
Shield AI is a venture-backed deep-tech company focused on protecting service members and civilians with intelligent systems. The Chief Engineer is responsible for solving complex technical challenges in deploying advanced autonomy solutions on Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS) and leading a team of engineers to deliver autonomous capabilities for defense contracts.
Responsibilities:
• Serve as the Chief Engineer on Shield AI projects focused on developing and deploying autonomy solutions for unmanned aircraft
• Lead a team responsible for advancing Hivemind Autonomy and shaping Department of Defense (DoD) autonomy architectures.
• Define and assign technical objectives, make key engineering decisions, and ensure the quality and completeness of all technical deliverables
• Provide technical leadership and oversight across both Internal Research and Development (IRAD) initiatives and DoD contracts.
Qualifications:
Required:
• BS/MS in Computer Science, Electrical Engineering, Mechanical/Aerospace Engineering, and/or similar degree
• 10+ years of industry experience in autonomy and/or UAS platforms (e.g., defense tech, self-driving car, etc.)
• 7+ years of delivering software into production/certifiable environments with high-reliability
• Understanding of guidance, control and navigation (GNC) (e.g. controls, estimation, planning)
• Understanding of robotics stack (e.g., controls, estimation, perception, planning, etc.)
• Understanding of software development processes and how to effectively deploy software
• Experience defining technical scope and managing technical requirements, product architectures, ICDs and other system level design documentation
• Demonstrate problem solving skills by applying a scientific technical approach
• Customer-facing engineering leader supporting both defense and internally funded development programs
• Contribute to government contract proposal writing
• Excellent communication skills, both written and verbal
• Excellent leadership skills, driving a team of 6-20 engineers
Company:
Shield AI is a deep-tech company that focuses on developing AI-powered systems to enhance the safety of service members and civilians. Founded in 2015, the company is headquartered in San Diego, USA, with a team of 1001-5000 employees. The company is currently Late Stage.

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